The Sun City Resort in Rustenburg is famous for style and grandeur, and it prides itself in being one of the most sought after destinations in Africa.
Rustenburg is one of the nine South African cities that will host football matches during the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ in June and July. Amongst the games to be played at Rustenburg's Royal Bafokeng Stadium will be the highly anticipated England and USA match, as well as Ghana v. Australia and Mexico v. Uruguay to name just a few. And when you visit Rustenburg, one of the places you will have to see is the Sun City Resort.
Along with being a major destination for foreign visitors, Sun City has since become a prime tourist spot for South Africans seeking piece of mind and a perfect weekend. In two weeks time, Sun City will once again be the centre of attention when some of the top coaches in the world descend on Rustenburg for the FIFA Team Workshop (22-24 February) ahead of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
So, if you find yourself in Rustenburg’s Sun City before or during the FIFA World Cup, the question will be, what do you do there? We came up with some recommendations after a recent visit.
Improve your golf swing
Renowned for being one of the most spectacular courses in Southern Africa, the Gary Player Golf Course has been a happy hunting ground to some of the top players in the world. Named after one of the finest golfers to emerge out of South Africa, the golf course has hosted many international events including an annual tournament that attracts top players and many spectators. For the novice golfer, the Titleist Golf Academy provides private or group instruction and golf clinics. The design and multiple tees make it equally enjoyable for both beginners and professional golfers.
Play in the waves
When in Sun City, the Valley of Waves is regarded as one of the most advanced water parks in the world and is a must-see place before you depart. The Valley of Waves is open daily from 9am to 6pm. Facilities at the Valley of Waves include well-equipped changing rooms, a locker service and a clinic for treating minor medical emergencies.
Mingle with royalty
One of the most awe-inspiring places in Sun City has to be the Palace of the Lost City. Built as the royal residence of an ancient civilisation in South Africa, the Palace of the Lost City was destroyed by an earthquake in the past. It has now been restored to its former glory and offers splendid accommodation in the most sumptuous surroundings in South Africa.
Go on a Safari
Close to the Sun City Resorts is the Pilanesburg National Park and Game reserve. Pilanesburg is the fourth largest reserve in Southern Africa and it supports such rare and endangered species such as black rhino, roan, tsessebe, foot-and-mouth free buffalo and wild dogs. As well as the 'Big Five' you will find the nocturnal brown hyena, cheetah, hippo, crocodile and sable.
Explore the mines
South Africa is known as being amongst the biggest producers of platinum and Rustenburg is home to some of the richest and finest platinum mines in South Africa. From Sun City it is a drive of less than 20 minutes to reach some of the nearest mines.
